MLB Playoff Race: Harper hyperextends knee stepping on 1B

The Washington Nationals have struggled with injuries during the last month, and on Saturday night right fielder Bryce Harper became the latest Nat to be injured. Harper hyperextended his knee going hard into first base on a routine groundout, he very quickly left the game.

Fortunately for Washington, it appears that Harper only has bone contusions in his knee, and no torn muscles or ligaments. Which means that he’s only going to miss a few weeks, and that means the 24-year old should be back for the playoffs baring any major set backs in his recovery from this injury.

The Nationals desperately need the 24-year old right fielder’s bat in the line-up. So far this season he’s hit .326/.419/.614 with a wRC+ of 162. He’s been exceptionally productive because of his power, the right fielder has clubbed 29 dingers in 472 plate appearances — with an isolated slugging percentage of .289. That kind of power, and production, would be hard for the Nationals to overcome if he isn’t ready to go in their playoffs.

While Harper’s injury could change the Nationals trajectory in the playoffs, Washington is so far ahead of its division opponents that it’s not going to impact their odds of making the playoffs.